Paralysis

Tingling, burning, pain, or other abnormal sensations in one or more areas of the body

Weakness in one or more areas of the body

Exams and Tests

A detailed history is needed to determine the possible cause of the disorder. Examination and neuromuscular testing may show a loss of feeling and movement due to problems with specific nerves. Reflexes may be abnormal.

To diagnose mononeuritis multiplex, there usually needs to be problems with two or more unrelated nerve areas. Common nerves affected are the:

Safety is an important consideration for people with sensation or movement difficulties. Lack of muscle control and decreased sensation may increase the risk of falls or injuries. Safety measures for people with movement difficulty include:

Adequate lighting (including leaving lights on at night)

Railings

Removing obstacles (such as loose rugs that may slip on the floor)

Testing water temperature before bathing

Wearing protective shoes (no open toes or high heels)

Check shoes often for grit or rough spots that may injure the feet.

People with decreased sensation should check their feet (or other affected area) often for bruises, open skin areas, or other injuries that may go unnoticed. These injuries may become severely infected because the pain nerves of the area are not signaling the injury.

People with mononeuropathy multiplex are prone to new nerve injuries at pressure points such as knees and elbows. They should avoid putting pressure on these areas, for example by not leaning on the elbows, crossing the knees, or holding similar positions.

Medications that may help include:

Over-the-counter pain medicines (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) or prescription pain medications may be needed to control pain (neuralgia).

Neuralgia

Neuralgia is a sharp, shocking pain that follows the path of a nerve and is due to irritation or damage to the nerve. Common neuralgias include:Shing...

Anticonvulsants (gabapentin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, or pregabalin) or antidepressants (amitriptyline, nortriptyline, or duloxetine), may be used to reduce stabbing pains.

Whenever possible, avoid or minimize the use of medications to reduce the risk of side effects.

Positioning (the use of frames to keep bedclothes off of a tender body part) and other measures may help control pain. Autonomic symptoms can be difficult to treat or respond poorly to treatment.

Outlook (Prognosis)

A full recovery is possible if the cause is found and treated, especially if the nerve damage is limited. Some people have no type of disability. Others have a partial or complete loss of movement, function, or sensation.

Nerve pain may be quite uncomfortable and can last for a long time. If this occurs, see a pain specialist todiscuss all pain treatment optionsavailable to you.

Possible Complications

Deformity, loss of tissue or muscle mass

Disturbances of organ functions

Medication side effects

Repeated or unnoticed injury to the affected area due to lack of sensation